Lime Mousse Cheesecake

Light, tangy, and irresistibly creamy, this Lime Mousse Cheesecake is the perfect dessert to refresh your palate and impress your guests. With a buttery graham cracker crust, smooth no-bake lime cheesecake base, and a fluffy lime mousse topping, this dessert strikes a perfect balance between sweet and zesty. It’s a show-stopping yet surprisingly simple recipe that’s ideal for spring, summer, or any time you’re craving something cool and citrusy.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get fresh, delicious desserts and seasonal sweets you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Light & Creamy – A silky mousse layer makes it feel airy and indulgent
No-Bake Convenience – Perfect for warm days or easy prep
Zesty & Bright – Fresh lime juice and zest add a refreshing twist
Make-Ahead Friendly – Great for prepping a day in advance
Gorgeous Presentation – Layers of lime flavor in every bite

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crust:
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cheesecake Layer:
12 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
¼ cup fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon lime zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping

For the Lime Mousse Layer:
1 (3 oz) package lime-flavored gelatin
½ cup boiling water
½ cup cold water
1 teaspoon lime zest
1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping

For Garnish (Optional):
Extra whipped cream
Thin lime slices or curls
Graham cracker crumbs
Fresh mint leaves

Tools You’ll Need
9-inch springform pan
Mixing bowls
Hand mixer or stand mixer
Rubber spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Zester or microplane

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust
In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar
Stir in melted butter until evenly combined
Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan
Chill in the fridge for 15–20 minutes to set

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth and fluffy
Add powdered sugar, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla
Mix until creamy and fully combined
Fold in whipped cream until smooth
Spread the cheesecake mixture evenly over the chilled crust
Refrigerate while preparing the mousse layer

Step 3: Make the Lime Mousse
In a medium bowl, dissolve lime gelatin in boiling water
Stir in cold water and lime zest
Let cool for 10–15 minutes at room temperature (do not let it fully set)
Fold in whipped cream gently until combined and fluffy
Pour mousse over the cheesecake layer and smooth the top
Refrigerate at least 4 hours, or until fully set

Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once set, remove the cheesecake from the springform pan
Top with swirls of whipped cream, lime slices, zest, or mint if desired
Slice with a hot knife for clean cuts
Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, citrusy goodness

Tips for the Best Lime Mousse Cheesecake
Use fresh lime juice – It gives the best bright, tart flavor
Soften cream cheese fully – Ensures a lump-free filling
Cool the gelatin – Let it come close to room temp before folding in whipped cream
Chill thoroughly – The mousse layer needs time to set completely
Slice cleanly – Wipe your knife between each cut for a bakery-worthy presentation

Serving Suggestions
Serve after a light grilled meal or seafood dinner
Pair with a sparkling lime drink or iced tea
Add a tropical fruit salad on the side for a summery vibe
Use mini tart pans for individual servings at parties
Make it part of a dessert bar with lemon bars and coconut macaroons

How to Store and Freeze

Storing:
Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Store in the springform pan or transfer to an airtight container

Freezing:
Freeze uncovered until firm, then wrap tightly in plastic and foil
Store up to 2 months
Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use key limes?
Yes! Key limes add even more citrus flavor. You’ll need more juice as they are smaller

Can I use a different crust?
Absolutely—try a vanilla wafer, shortbread, or even chocolate cookie crust

Is it too tart?
Not at all—the whipped cream and sweet crust balance the citrus perfectly

Can I use store-bought whipped topping?
Yes, just be sure to gently fold it in for a light texture

What if I don’t have a springform pan?
Use a deep 9-inch pie dish or 8×8 pan; just slice and serve carefully

Final Thoughts
This Lime Mousse Cheesecake is everything you want in a warm-weather dessert—cool, creamy, and bursting with citrus flavor. With its delicate layers and no-bake simplicity, it’s an impressive treat that comes together with ease.
Try it once, and you’ll be hooked on its refreshing, melt-in-your-mouth charm. Perfect for birthdays, summer cookouts, or simply indulging in a slice of sunshine.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 4+ hours
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, 12 servings):
Calories: 310 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 25g | Fat: 21g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 190mg

Print